Graphical and Mechanical Computation, Vol. 1 : Alignment Charts (Classic Reprint)

Master the art of graphical and mechanical computation with practical alignment charts. This reference presents a course from MIT’s Mathematical Laboratory, focusing on tools that help engineers and students solve real-world problems more efficiently. It introduces foundational ideas about scales, slide rules, and nomographic charts, and shows how to turn complex formulas into readable charts.

The book guides you through constructing and using alignment charts to represent relationships among multiple variables. It blends theory with hands-on diagrams and worked examples, including charts for power, flow, tension, and other engineering formulas. Numerous exercises reinforce the methods and extend the charts to new situations.

- Learn how to represent equations with three or more variables using parallel or perpendicular scales
- See how to build and interpret nomographic charts for practical problems
- Explore charts for engine problems, fluid flow, belt tension, and structural calculations
- Follow step-by-step examples that demonstrate constructing and applying the charts

Ideal for readers who want a clear, visual approach to engineering calculations and graphical methods.